The Modern Wallet Blog

4 Signs You Need to Clean Up Your Finances

It’s easy to see when you house needs cleaning, but it may be a little harder to know when to “tidy up” your finances.

7 Ways to Protect Your Credit Score

A high score can help you qualify for the lowest interest rates.

Does It Make Sense to Consolidate Your Debt?

Before jumping at such an offer, ask yourself these crucial questions.

Choosing a Private Student Loan

These are the things you should consider.

To Pay Down Debt, First You Have to Save

When you want to pay off debt fast, that impulse often means depleting your savings.

Family Finances: The Importance of Keeping Everyone Informed

Who pays all the bills, files the joint taxes, deals with insurance matters, and knows where all the important papers are saved?

Bad Money Habits and How to Fix Them

The peace of mind a healthy financial status brings is priceless.

5 Ways To Pay Off A Loan Early

If you’re like most Americans, you owe money on a large loan. 

How To Talk Money With Your Partner

What happens when you and your partner have different approaches toward money?

It's a common scenario.

Saving Money When There's Not Much to Save

Life is easier if you have a cash cushion or an emergency fund, but how do you save when there is not much fat in your budget?

Don't Rely on Luck at Tax Time

At tax time, there’s no such thing as luck. Plan ahead, be proactive, and prevent surprises on your next tax return.

Financial Advice You Should Never Follow

The beauty of the Internet is that anyone can start a blog. The ugly truth about the Internet is that anyone can start a blog. And no, that's no typo.

Payday Loans Aren't Worth the Cost

It’s a trap that will cost you many times more than you borrow.

5 Reasons We Overspend (and How to Overcome Them)

What makes us overspend? Let’s take a look at five common reasons and how we can overcome them.

The Benefits of Using Mobile Payments

Why fumble for your wallet when checking out when you can pay using your phone?

What Are the Advantages of a HELOC?

Once approved for a HELOC, borrowers can spend the funds however they choose. 

The Importance of Being Financially Fit

Being financially fit is crucial for a well-balanced, stress-free life.

When Does it Make Sense to Pay a Bill with a Credit Card?

Credit cards and debit cards offer incredible convenience; but, is it a smart idea to pay monthly bills with them?

Using Your Credit Cards Responsibly

Boost your credit score and financial wellbeing. 

What's the Best Way to Tackle Debt?

Snowball Method vs. Avalanche Method

Preparing for an Interview

Here’s how to prepare for an interview that will have you presenting yourself as polished, professional and capable to any potential employer.

Don’t Toss That Junk Mail — It Might be Your Stimulus Payment

Four million Americans are receiving their Economic Impact Payment in the form of a prepaid debit card — and many are mistaking it for junk mail.

Beware Unemployment Scams

As the economy reels from the impact of COVID-19, a record number of Americans have filed for unemployment insurance.

Getting Ahead on Your Student Loan Before You Graduate

Be sure to look at the larger picture before you accept a position.

How Should I Spend My Stimulus Check?

The $1,200 granted to most middle class adults is a welcome relief during these financially trying times.

What Should Be on My Financial To-Do List This Spring?

Let's review some ways you can improve your money management this time of year.

All You Need to Know About Going Cashless

As our world grows increasingly digitized, many consumers are banishing cash from their wallets and choosing other ways to pay.

How to Create a Budget in 6 Easy Steps

A budget will help you gain financial awareness, which will help facilitate more responsible decisions.

How To Dispute An Error On Your Credit Report

As a financially responsible individual, you should be checking your credit on a regular basis.

Improve Your Finances in 2022

Where should you start?

5 Ways To Keep Your Finances Intact This Holiday Season

You don’t have to rack up a huge credit card bill or go into debt to cover your holiday expenses. Enjoy a financially stress-free season with these tips.

Understanding The Credit Card Trap

Why do most Americans carry so much credit card debt and find themselves stuck in the debt trap?

Do My Monthly Bill Payments Affect My Credit Score?

Read on for three steps that can help your on-time monthly payments boost your credit score.

How Much Money Should I Keep In My Checking Account?

How much money should we be keeping in these super-convenient accounts? Let's find out.

The Ultimate Smart Shoppers Cheat Sheet

Did you know you should be timing your shopping throughout the week?

7 Ways You Can Use a Personal Loan This Summer

We have outlined several ways to help you responsibly use a personal loan this summer.

12 Things To Do Before Your Summer Getaway

Heading out of town for vacation? Whatever your plans, here’s a list of things to take care of before you leave. 

7 Money Myths You Need To Stop Believing Now

We all grow up hearing the same financial advice: Spend less, save more and invest early. While most of these words of wisdom ring true, there are lots of widespread money management tips that are actually false.

What To Buy And What To Skip On Memorial Day

You might be surprised at the things you should and shouldn’t buy this time of year.

7 Signs You're Living Beyond Your Means And How To Fix Them

Let’s take a look at seven red flags that might mean you’re living beyond your means and the steps you can take to get back on track. 

Tax Code Changes 2019

The annual tax code changes can be confusing. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know for 2019.  

Do I Need an Emergency Fund and a Rainy Day Fund?

Rainy day funds and emergency funds serve different purposes, so it’s important to have both available to tap into as needed.

10 Hacks You Need To Know Before Hitting The Mall

Is there a way to spend less at the mall this holiday season and to make the experience more pleasant? 

How Many Credit Cards Should I Own?

Is several credit cards and more available credit a good idea? Or, are too many cards a liability to your score? 

7 Questions to ask Yourself Before Making a Large Purchase

You’re convinced: You really want that Coach handbag. Or maybe you just know that gigantic entertainment center will transform your weekends. So you swipe your card and the dream item becomes yours. You’re thrilled! 

6 Ways To Turn Your Dream Vacation Into a Reality

Everyone has their own version of a dream vacation. But, for most of us, it never becomes a reality. Read on for six ways to make that dream vacation come true.

How to Fund an Emergency

Q: I’ve had a financial emergency and I don’t know how to pay for it! What are my options? 

A: Ideally, you’ll want to have an emergency fund in place. If you don’t, consider these options… 

7 Ways To Spring Clean For Extra Cash

When that first delightful spring breeze starts blowing, you know it’s time to get your house in shape. But there’s more than just a neat house awaiting the end of all that hard work. With just a few steps, you can put some extra cash in your wallet. 

How To Use The Money Envelope System

If you’re like many of us, you’ve been trying to stick to a budget for a while, but by the time each month is over, you’ve busted your budget – again.

6 Common Tax Mistakes To Avoid

It’s that time of year again! Get ready to break out the calculator and pencils; dig out the enormous pile of receipts, tax forms and pay stubs, and get to work.

The Dos And Don'ts Of Credit Repair

Looking for ways to improve an unfavorable credit score? Look no further! Our handy guide will help you get on the road to improving your score.